LASTING IMPRESSIONS: Networking in the Fine Arts

Lasting Impressions with Sian Lindemann

A la Sian Design
And
Torva Fine Art

Kickin’ on 66 Collection: “Holiday”

Art Sales 2010

The economic devastation to the Fine Arts Industry of 2009 has lead to complete revolution in the manner in which our company has been able to generate sales of original works of art. I can’t speak for any of the other retailers, agents, or galleries whose primary business is to represent the sale of original works for the artists in their care.

Creative as we are, and with unwavering devotion to our artists, our revitalization required not only extreme focus, but an equal willingness to re-think our methods entirely, in reference to how we think about art and its value, and certainly, how we empower the artist to take initiative on their own behalf.

As in the industries of independent film, indie music, and indie publishing, it has become increasingly clear that the art business is now in the hands of the artist.

Like it or not, our company has had to take an increasingly significant back seat to the “desire” of the artist and their ambitions. That has been easily accomplished…

... with one HUGE difference: The artist MUST be willing to take the driver seat in their own career.

No more feigning lack of interest in the “business of art.”

It is now, essential, that the artist adopt the drive, ambition, skills and action required of all entrepreneurs to stay ahead of their industry, their less impassioned competitors, and become the “voice” of their own destiny.

Nowhere is this more clear than in a recent and delightful association with artist, Lucretia Torva, of Torva Fine Art, Phoenix, Arizona.

Kickin’ on 66 Collection: “Old Schoolin”

Sian Design has had the privilege of working with artist, Lucretia Torva, for the last 120 days, although our relationship goes back at least as one year.

Miss Torva is a graduate of the business organization CEOSpace, and has over the last many years made both an adequate income as a painter and muralist. Yet more recently, due to the critical economic conditions, she has needed also to supplement her income with “outside” employment.

No better time for us both to meet. Sian Design provided consulting services to Lucretia Torva, who has an already established and well matured art technique. Together we set to task to create placement for her original works with an intent to design a market outside of the traditional gallery exhibitions and other standard exhibition options.

Our first task was to identify styles and “collections,” to thus determine a placement strategy for her styles and collections. We focused only on “original” works, and eliminated print art or other known “limited edition” products outside the realm of our primary focus. (For we know that over the years, limited edition art has not retained its value. And our sophisticated clientele realize this from the massive LE approach to the fine arts since the 1980’s and 1990’s. Not even the most established artists can authenticate the appraised value of limited edition print art, especially in “resale.” Television auctions and a variety of other mass producers of print art have destroyed that market entirely.)

It does not eliminate print art as an option, but is more readily considered as open editions versus Fine Art Limited Editions.

In Torva’s career, she has three clearly defined styles and points of interest. Her styles include Portraiture, Vintage Automobiles and Motorcycles, and lastly Western or Equine Imagery.

Happy Trails: Torva Fine Art Equine Collection

Miss Torva elects to paint in these three very different styles that have compelling similarities… -- her passionate attention to detail,
-- her desire to study and immerse in the understanding of “reflective” surfaces
-- her ability to capture the underlying emotion of each of the subjects and to reveal the depth of character of each of the subjects





Torva Fine Art: Portraiture "Patience"

Miss Torva has a natural ability to socialize in circles within the Phoenix Business Community, with great elegance and ease of “networking.”

In other words, she enjoys “schmoozing,” which has long been the role of the agent, gallery or representative on behalf of the artist. Miss Torva easily commands the attention of a room, by her professionalism, her manner, her “image,” and her genuine desire to interact socially. This is a KEY difference in the relationship that has developed with Torva Fine Art and Sian Design.

A complete reversal, if you will, of traditional roles. Miss Torva elects to attend many different and high-level networking events through out the cities of Scottsdale, Phoenix, and the South Western Desert region. She enjoys interaction about business, politics, and of course, art, interacting with those who would have an interest, are enthused by and have personal collections of vintage automobiles and motorcycles. Among Lucretia’s collectors are high visibility political figures for whom she has created portraiture, often revealing the specific moment one has announced the furthering of their political career…

And those like Jay Leno, who are known, avid automobile enthusiasts.

The key “thread” common to the success of Torva Fine Art is Lucretia’s willingness to be present in the rooms of affluent and influential business men and women in the greater Phoenix area. It has been my job as agent and business manager to simply strategize her presence in each of those situations. In other words, I help her strategize how best to maximize her presence in the room. Most importantly, I work with her to come to each of these rooms with a “What’s in it for them?” mentality, versus the ever-destructive and ego-centric opposing consideration of "what’s in it for Lucretia?"

This has proven a KEY element to Lucretia’s success. And more importantly, this approach gives the artist a new role, one that is quite empowered and authentic, as her presence in each of these rooms brings value to the end user over and above the value of the art itself, which of course is evident.

This change in her thinking, through recommendations, suggestions and actualization by working with Sian Design, has been pivotal to her success.

No longer does the patron want to hear from me, the agent.

The patron wants to deal direct, with the artist, wants to know the artist personally, and also wants to interact and introduce the artist to friends, colleagues, and other associates who might also enjoy the works.

This is a complete revolution in the arts business where heretofore, the gallery or agent was always the intermediary between artist and patron.

No more!

Its been a delight to work with Lucretia Torva and Torva Fine Art, as Lucretia’s open and receptive manner make negotiations, discussions, and business brainstorming sessions most productive, fun and interesting.

My job as agent is now more predisposed to strategy, creating PR opportunities, using social media as a tool to tell the developing story of Torva Fine Art, and assisting Miss Torva with access to use us as a sounding board for her decision-making process.

Her team includes a CFO, an IP Attorney, and myself, Sian Lindemann, to advise and direct her. The one significant consideration is in the direct and clear desire to place collections, versus one image at a time with one patron at a time.

To see a comprehensive and well defined body of work: This has taken quite a bit more work to accomplish, yet the outcome has been much more fulfilling for the artist, the patron, and the public.

Placing collections has put art back into the prestige of museum-quality work, with a story, a theme, and an impact that heretofore was lost in the zest of less strategic development for the artist, and with little regard to the greater future of the work and its impact long after the departure of the artist.

A combined effort on the part of my company to create a higher vision for the collections, and the artist’s willingness to participate in her own destiny have been the greatest change in the nature of the HOW of the arts.

Networking, undertaken by the artist, is the KEY difference, and makes for a much more successful relationship with us, Sian Design, who have long been advocating the need for long-term planning in the careers of artists in our care.

Global voice, Global mission, and the art and artist then find the esteemed placement they all so much desire: to be revered and remembered for their impact and for their visionary voice.

It’s a new day in the Fine Arts. A reason "to be" is essential to discover and to actualize.

Torva Fine Art and artist Lucretia Torva will long be remembered well after the artist has departed. Is this not the authentic power of art?

We think so. That's why we are providing the services to accommodate this kind of long-term, vision, actualized

Sian Design
http://www.SianDesign.com
Executive Director
for Torva Fine Art
http://www.TorvaFineArt.com

Sian Lindemann
March 2010


For more information, please visit Sian's TNNW Bio.

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LASTING IMPRESSIONS: Networking in the Fine Arts

LASTING IMPRESSIONS: Raiders of the “Lost Art”

Lasting Impressions with Sian Lindemann

Of Customer Service… and Lack of Personal Attention


Have you recently tried to contact a company to make an inquiry about your account ? Have you been placed on hold for an inordinate amount of time?

Have you been redirected to 14 other contact points only to discover that your particular question is not addressed in “the list?”

There is much to be said for the Art of Customer Service as an “engagement” consideration. While we are often excited and ready to help a new customer access our service base, how one handles the “problems” or the ongoing “client retention” is quite another topic.

I have had the pleasure to experience the best of service with current companies and I’ve encountered the opposite. And I believe, as perhaps we all do, that there needs to be some balance between the two.

In my personal experience, on the nature of the art business, there definitively needs to be considerable attention to customer satisfaction, with a long term exchange, not unlike a “personal” relationship one would have with a romantic partner.

Consideration and delicacy in an art acquisition, it is essential to deal directly with the same emotional triggers of “love,” and its vulnerabilities.

Customer service is by definition the relationship that ensues once the purchase has been made. The best example I’ve experienced over the last several years is the personal exchange I’ve had with the automobile company, Hyundai.

I purchased my car in Washington State and subsequently have required service is five different states since its acquisition: Washington, Arizona, (two locations in Arizona ) Wisconsin, and Colorado.

Bar none, the service in each location was above and beyond the best personal experience I have ever encountered. Not just about the car being serviced, but also the attention to my time, payment, and ongoing notifications and support. Hyundai, no matter the location, has been consistent throughout with the best and most generous support, going well above the call of duty in all of the locations. Their service would insure that I would buy from Hyundai again, and have actually looked into doing so.

Additionally, the follow up regarding the option for a secondary sale is spectacular.

They have my loyalty, and have for over nine years.

There is no need to define “bad” service as I’m sure we’ve all had an experience of it at some point in time. But what in particular would be an extra mile you could offer as a means and method to support your customer to consistently choose your company and service base first… should be positioned as the highest priority.

There is surely no need to go into those situations which have been less than exceptional as we all know what that feels like. So in keeping with the “romantic nature” of an art sale what could you do to make your client continue to feel exceptionally well cared for?

It can be as simple as the little gestures that you would naturally impart to a romantic partner that make one feel extremely special.

The List

1) Invite your clients to participate in something that is light, friendly and is not a constant request for a sale. ~ Hey what a concept ~ A friendly phone call!

2) An occasional card, birthday card, special event card as a wedding anniversary or anniversary of one’s last purchase, to discover how they are enjoying the original painting or other object d’art they have received.

3) A small gift sent directly to your client’s door. I rarely ever receive real mail other than bills, so how much fun would it be to receive the gift of a “hand painted” greeting card, or the like, to be used at the customer’s discretion, sent directly to the client’s home as a reminder of how much you appreciate their business.

4) An invitation to lunch, dinner or a wine tasting that has nothing to do with another art sale.

These may seem simple actions. Yet in such a harried and rushed environment in the business world, we seem to have lost these intrinsic niceties that make the other party feel great. The client may not take you up on your offer, but the thought and consideration to have extended the invitation will not go unnoticed.

In parting ~ I once ran the office ~ now many, many years ago ~ for a freight logistics company. It was a horrifically busy business, with many problems due to freight damage, late arrivals of major shipping and truck lines, and a plethora of problems. Yet with all of the problems, we implemented a variety of services that literally quadrupled the company’s business, and were specific to beefing up the “customer service.”

1) We implemented services that included that WE handled all the claims for freight damage incurred by the trucking lines. An occasional pizza and beer for the whole shipping and claims office assured our claims got first consideration for payment.

2) We called and chatted with the claims supervisors, truck drivers, and the end receiving offices for all companies involved.

3) We provided the best pricing we could find by building our access and database for private and company-based shipping services.

4) We provided solutions for consideration of repackaging product to minimize damage.

5) We had fun doing so!

These may seem simple solutions. But where art and beauty go together so too does a well timed delivery of a single flower delivered impeccably to the recipients door.

Take the time to treat your clients like royalty. and you will create a magnificent and spectacularly loyal fan base. Most importantly, in these times where the “personal” seems to have gone out the window with the wild wild west of the Internet, make sure that your communications are personal, beautifully executed and well constructed.

Wishing you continued success in your career !

Sian Lindemann
February 2010


For more information, please visit Sian's TNNW Bio.

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LASTING IMPRESSIONS: Raiders of the “Lost Art”

LASTING IMPRESSIONS: Barriers To Creative Expression

Lasting Impressions with Sian Lindemann

Letting “The Moment” Pass You By

Illumination

Tonight bears witness to the fact that there is a moment in one’s professional career where one says yes to all that is possible or says yes to the opposite where one continues to doubt their capability and craft.

And so it is this evening. In readying to draft this month’s article I made the calculated effort to approach my work in a uniquely different way. An intended interview with a writer whose work I admire and respect went sideways from minute “one.”

In light of the fact that I had to switch and change the content of my article for TNNW,
I had to adopt the literal and immediate requirement to access my creativity and to then switch-up and change, mid-stream, the expected content that was to be produced.

Interesting that the title of the initial article was to have been, “Creativity As A Way Of Life”…and so it is… my life, my creativity, and the ongoing recognition of its endless and unconstrained source, is again at my hand…the pen.

One can never run out of creativity.

Networking

In light of the fact that I’ve been effusing over the positive aspects of Social Media, and the need to document and fill a variety of platforms with written content that is considered “valuable,’ I have long ago removed the limitations on what I would say, how deeply I would dig to express my views, and trust that if I was as authentic as I could muster, there would be an audience to read, to be enraptured, and to potentially be moved by it.

And so it is…back to me…to share the power and the willingness to expose my soul to the public. As an artist, it is required, as an artist who is recognized, it is essential.

The networking has then become a bonus, if you will. Tagging articles, notes, and other creative content that has been designed and presented, has, in my experience been extremely well received. I have often been shocked at the passionate response to what I have written…

For writing, is, for me still, one of the most difficult art forms in which I immerse.

I will, nearly always, procrastinate until the very last moment, as I have done today. And the procrastination is not, in this moment, of my own creation. I had “handled” the exchange, had set up the interview, and was even enraptured in the content of the blog by which I had discovered this particular writer.

And here I am, again, crafting my own content to meet the deadline so as to post my article in a timely manner.

Yet, that which comes from an immediate need to speak about an AHA, is often the moment that is most compelling and engaging for those who are viewing the work, the art, the writing, the article, the form.

That AHA is the mysterious magic that IS “creativity.” Aligning with the source of oneself and knowing that it can be tapped, and expressed at any time, it has never failed me.

And from this feeling…a bit discombobulated, a lot disrupted, and slightly out of balance, then flows a quintessentially genuine topic, about which I am most impassioned, creativity, and my passion for the “creation” in all of its glorious forms.

Knowing the edge, if you will, a border between slightly buzzed, excited and agitated, then flows content that I actually enjoy, and feel excited to “share”.

I am feeling sorry for the writer who would not “bounce” with the interview. I am feeling saddened by her expression that was not sure she was ready to participate in the interview. I am even more amazed that she had captured me so vehemently by her writings, that I was actually motivated to ask her to participate in this interview…as I had so enjoyed her blog posts….and lastly I’m a bit angry that I wasted a half hour of my life discussing whether the timing was correct to share her works with this platform.

And finally, the best is realized, I am thrilled that I have a platform whereby I can share so much of what I feel about the genuine “treasure” it is to have the freedom to say exactly whatever I wish, as is the case right NOW.

The creative process, realized….I can’t wait to share this content with my friends, colleagues, followers and others. For the process itself is the quintessential directive behind the door, titled “networking.” Networking is relational, it is personal, and it is a natural expression following effusive and enthusiastic expression of that which is most important to you.

Creativity IS networking ~

Sian Lindemann
January 2010

For more information, please visit Sian's TNNW Bio.







Published by THE NATIONAL NETWORKER Newsletter. All rights reserved. Subscribe Free For Your TNNW Newsletter and THE BLUE MONDAY REPORT! - Click HERE.
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LASTING IMPRESSIONS: Barriers To Creative Expression

LASTING IMPRESSIONS: “Underneath Your Clothes... There’s an endless Story”

Lasting Impressions with Sian Lindemann

“Underneath Your Clothes... There’s an endless Story”
From the song ~ Shakira
Questions and Statements that cause one to Think


How many colors are there in a reflection?
~ Lucretia Torva

Underneath Your Clothes, There’s an endless Story” ~ Shakira

Hips Don’t Lie ~ Shakira

“When we KNOW that love matters more than anything and we know that nothing else really matters, we move into the state of surrender. Surrender does not diminish our power, it enhances it” ~ Unknown

I’ve been “thinking” a lot over the last several weeks, and it is the reason why I am amazingly LATE and have missed the deadline for my article for The National Networker, January 2010.

I suppose Adam will forgive me because I have delivered unto his publication an endless stream of timely articles for nearly three years... and, although this one is LATER than LATE, I simply could not come up with a title or content that was “in line” with this new thinking.

The new thinking has been percolating for some time and has not allowed for me to write the “status quo” kind of content I have provided before today.

Adam will be pleased, for two reasons

1) He allowed me to write for Arts and Entertainment because I know my business
2) He tolerated my writing for Arts and Entertainment for I am self - admitted “rotten” writer.

Now, it is intolerable, even for me, to write a crappy article just to get it in ON Time.
This is a good thing.

I have been demanding of my artists to provide and produce perfection, but have not been willing to hone my craft in order that I, too, provide an excellent end product. From this discovery, I am having a pivotal AHA, if you will.

And for this I am not placing myself out of the loop in a willingness to give you, our readers, a better product, no matter the discomfort it causes me.

The Turning Point
The turning point has been Social Media, which forces me to write daily, to write passionately and to write about those things that really matter to me. And today I am prompted to better the quality of my product to you…

I don’t know if Adam Kovitz will accept my article in this format, but what I do KNOW is that I can no longer provide a skimpy version of something, quickly penned, simply to meet the deadline for a publication that has asked from me, a product, delivered thus, in service to its deadline.

Both considerations warrant value.

Writing as I have been doing to maintain a number of blogs, and 3 Face Book profiles, have assisted me to become more clear. I would never go so far as to personally congratulate myself on the notion that I have become a better writer. What has occurred, however, is a consistent and formidable devotion to the passionate expression of my work.

I have fallen in love with my work… for now, a 30 year immersion into supporting, prompting, cultivating realizing the careers of artists in my care…I now have a deeper devotion to my own artistry…and I am in love with the power of “creation” once again.

I had it once, and thus, set it aside... round about back on 9/11/2001

I am back, and am more devoted than ever, not only to my own best discovery and creation, but to those whom I serve. And in this format, I serve the readers of The National Networker.

Working daily in Social Media has brought forth the realization, which has been supported by my fans and readers there, that I have the ability to write profoundly, to have an impact with the thoughts and ideas that I present, and to ultimately inspire those
Who are taking the time to read and possibly share my posts.

I am honored, truly... and surprised.
For... Humility has come with my surprise.

So it is at this time, once penned, that Adam will have the final decision on whether I continue to write for The National Networker, but in the meantime, I devote myself to providing the very best content I can possibly drum up…and express in writing.

I have been moved by the writing of others. I have been inspired by the writing of others, and I am most appreciative that if in any way, anything I write has an impact on my readers here, or on my own platforms, I have found a new way, a new art form, and a profoundly deepened expression of truths that are extracted from my core values.

HOW does this apply to Networking

The art of and the realization of “The Law of Attraction” is experienced today, January 15, 2010. For the first time in years, I can finally stop pushing the river to get people to pay attention to me shouting from the mountaintops. They are coming, joining, reading, and commenting of their own volition.

I am honored…and I am humbled in their so doing.

And it is up to ME and me alone to continue to provide better and better ways to hone a pathway that gives back that which I so deeply receive.

Appreciation... for inspired thought.

Think on this if you will... Does your art inspire? Does your work inspire? Do your actions make better the lives of those who surround you?

If not, and if not bettering the lives of those around you, are you truly giving the very essence of your soul each time you paint, write, sculpt or dance?

And If Not... Begin It NOW... In line with one of my most favorite quotes, “Boldness has genius... Begin it Now...” Goethe

Thank you Adam, and my greatest thanks to The National Networker for assisting me to actualize something new. The power to transform through yet another art form in the long list of actualized skills of Sian Lindemann ~ Artist

In this authenticity, I no longer need to “network” to drum up clients, fans, or support. They come... by their own volition, in free will, as if a moth to a flame... for where Light and passion are present, who can truly resist ?

That is the highest form of networking... natural, unencumbered, and authentic.

January 2010
Sian Lindemann

For more information, please visit Sian's TNNW Bio.






Published by THE NATIONAL NETWORKER Newsletter. All rights reserved. Subscribe Free For Your TNNW Newsletter and THE BLUE MONDAY REPORT! - Click HERE.
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LASTING IMPRESSIONS: “Underneath Your Clothes... There’s an endless Story”

LASTING IMPRESSSIONS: "There Is NO Money In The Arts"

Lasting Impressions with Sian Lindemann

The Art of “The Dance” ~
OR… HOW To Network In The Dance World ~

If you are an artist, I can be assured that you have heard this statement once or twice in your professional career, “There is NO money in the arts”…and I assume, that you have believed it. I am a participant in the promotion of the arts, that for over 30 years, I have heard this statement more often than I care to admit, AND I’ve heard more excuses justifying failure in the arts, being attributed to this statement, as well.

WHO TOLD YOU THIS ???

I’m on a mission, like no other, for the second, third, fourth, fifth … Well actually, I’ve lost track of the number of times that I have made money in the arts and creative industries…with business, projects, activities, and I dare say, shameless “self promotion” in the arts world.

An FYI for all artists ~ IF you don’t TOOT your own horn, I’m terribly sorry to inform you that there will be no one lining up to do so for you…until you master this task…Shameless “self – promotion.”

Stepping Down From My Soap Box

First of all, I want to apologize, for my anger, angst and frustration with artists AND with business people who lack basic creativity in the launch and activities of their companies. I would actually tell you to re-evaluate your business aspirations. Even my mother, an entrepreneur all of her life, admitted on her death bed, that she never really enjoyed DRIVING the business….she more preferred being support to an impassioned driver…

IS THIS YOU?

NEXT ~ If you are certain that you wish to find fame, fortune, glory and recognition in your particular field, then I am going to shout from the mountain top, so that you can hear me… WAKE UP !!!

You may think me unkind, uncaring, and ill equipped to share this fact with you ~ ITS YOUR FAULT…that you are not successful ~

OK…I’m finished… and I am laughing OUT LOUD…

The winds of change are upon us ~ (We’re having one of those famous “desert storms” as I am writing this article…The wind is blowing up dust and it is WILD, outside.)

So perhaps the wind and its effect have impassioned my writing today…and I’m going to share a story with you that is both poignant and powerful…and is about one little girl, named Chandra Krown, with whom I had the pleasure to work, now many years ago.

Chandra is a dancer.

I met Chandra in Vancouver, BC on one of my many “adventures,” having just moved to Vancouver, and having immersed myself into the creative community in that city, several things occurred for me there.

1) I loved Vancouver and wanted to find a way to stay
2) I loved Vancouver and decided I would stay
3) I love artists, as you already know, and happened upon Chandra and a group of other local artists, each actively pursuing a variety of careers, in music, in art, in dance, in drumming, and lastly, my favorite, in “design.”

I had the pleasure, also, of hiring the quirkiest “personal coach” who proceeded to illuminate for me ~ that “EVERTHING” is possible. One need only say YES and to “TAKE ACTION” ~ which I then did, on my own behalf “as the artist.”

But… meeting Chandra was a challenge I was willing to consider. First of all she is an extremely talented dancer, who for the moment, had a plethora of bad behaviors that were rather self defeating. I won’t go into detail about the nature of her “habits” as she has requested that I not share them with the public. However, it was clear that she must overcome these issues were she to succeed in her particular industry ~ DANCE…

So what I did do, is move in with her, and position myself to be available to her to assist her to overcome these issues….which I did.

Needless to say ~ it took a little time, some money, some devotion on my part to see her through to the other side. What did occur. When she was ready, I accompanied her to her first professional audition. The rest is history ~

She blew the ROOF off the room, and has subsequently gone on to become an internationally known dancer, aerialist, gymnast and many, many other talents.

AND she was able to remove herself from what is like our US Welfare system of Canadian Social Services…and become self-sufficient.

Last I witnessed, she was aerial dancing off the side of a high rise building in downtown Vancouver, BC, and has subsequently moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where she continues to exhibit her aerial ballets.

The point of the story is that “There IS money in the Arts” ~ How successful you become is a choice ~ YOUR choice….Remember, a group of Canadian based street performers who subsequently created and have become “Cirque de Soleil” all started in the same venue ~ Performing on the street.

I would then have to inquire ~ “ Do you think Cirque de Soleil is a financially viable entity ?” ~ With temporary and permanent shows now performing all over the world, we agree that YES is the only answer. The difference is HOW much more success has “Cirque” had over Chandra Krown and her troupe. It’s only a matter of commitment and personal aspirations….much like that which I described about my Mother. My Mom, always kept her businesses succeeding at a certain level and income, for perhaps, her whole life she did not know how to be a great support person, versus the need to be an independent “driver” of her companies.

This is the key factor ~ Can you work well with others? Can you listen to others and let go of control? Can you admit that others might have a better plan for you than you can have for yourself ? These are questions I ask myself on a daily basis.

And although I continue to “assist” other artists with advice and directional aid, at this time, I too, am taking the reins back on my own creative career…

…AND, it is all about Dance ~ I don’t have to be a great dancer to succeed. I DO have to be a great coordinator and director of the project…and at this time I am participating in the latter. Yes, I will continue to study dance, but I’m sure that few wish to see a middle –aged woman, who is obviously rusty and a little unfit ~ ( due to my current and massive immersion into social media and having been “sitting” in front of the computer for 2 years) dancing around on stage, unless of course I am going to play the character of the clown…

It is essential, however, to hold firm to the fact that “Cirque” is the business model that I aspire to… I need only cultivate and attract the best performance artists for my upcoming project…aptly titled “INCREIBLE”

Increible "Trailer" ~








So in light of the fact that we wish for the highest and best success with this project, I have to plan it out, which has been done, and will, thus, implement incrementally….and I’m happy to share with you that we are moving forward.

The key piece here is that this project is one that I could not grow easily in the “organic” ways I have launched and grown every other business in which I have been immersed.

This project requires capital ~ that, which has now been committed, after being laughed out of nearly every capital presentation I have given…NOT because it’s a bad idea, but because the external belief is that “THERE IS NO MONEY IN THE ARTS” ~

It’s not true ~ It”s never been true ~And it is only true for those who believe that the statement holds “water.” To those people, I say adieu ~ for their beliefs are letting themselves be “stuck.”

Interesting that an amazing group of people are gathering around this project, “INCREIBLE” which is a “Cirque” – style, World Class Entertainment Event which features The Passions of Flamenco Dance and The Poetry of Peruvian Paso Horses ~ like Cirque de Soleil’s “Cavalia ~ which, by the way, is one of their more successful traveling shows.

So on the flip side ~

I will continue to support the “plight” of artists, for I do understand the challenges that they face ~ However, I am removing myself from consulting with the arts community ~ “Be IT now" is the mantra I am adopting, once again, for over 30 years it has served me well, and will continue to do so.

Cheers to YOUR continued success and most of all, CHEERS to my own ~ for without the “gift” of mastering the ART of Networking, I would never, ever have been able to commit to this project, which is my primary focus and IS my passion.

And it is for which I made the move ~ and placed myself back in Arizona, whereby in this environ reside all the dancers, trainers, horses and people that make “Increible” a reality….and PS…”There IS money in the arts” ~ If you never give up, never stop asking for help, never stop sharing that which is your passion, there is light at the end of the tunnel. For here I am…Welcome !


Stay Tuned
Sincere Regards
Sian Lindemann
November 2009 ~
www.siandesign.com

For more information, please visit Sian's TNNW Bio.


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LASTING IMPRESSSIONS: "There Is NO Money In The Arts"

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Introducing Sian Lindemann
Founder and Executive Director
Sian Design

A “renaissance” if you will, is upon us, and the business of art and the business of “networking” will never be the same.

~ Sian Lindemann


A classic networking story:
How Sian and I were first introduced

Dot to dot to dot the network grows:
Where it stops, nobody knows…
─ Ann B. Sloan

You’ve got to hear this story: It’s a perfect archetype of the Networking Process at its finest ─ random connections and all!

Back in 2004 in Los Angeles, via my connections with IBI (now renamed CEO Space), I met a very sharp business planning expert named Paul Hoyt ─ a Colorado resident at the time ─ who decided to hire me for editorial work on his book, The Foundation Factor. We worked well together and enjoyed our collaboration; eventually the book was published and Paul gave both me and my editorial skills a glowing recommendation.

Fast forward to October 2005 – when I made a major move to the Kitsap Peninsula near Seattle, Washington. Then go immediately fast forward to late 2006, when one day I got a long distance call from a Florida gentleman I ‘d never heard of: Vernon Myers. He introduced himself as an Active Duty Major in the US Army, was writing a book, and said Paul Hoyt had referred him to me as an excellent editor.

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Major Myers and I had an enthusiastic conversation about all sorts of creative projects ─ and we concluded it would be great to talk regularly by phone: in fact, to form a MasterMind group. Vernon then recommended an additional person (also met at IBI) he’d like to include in our group. “Her name is Sian Lindemann,” he said. “She’s an Editor for The National Networker and lives in Washington State also.”

Sounds like an interesting new connection, I thought ─ so the three of us met by phone. We were great together! Through the next months, in overview, our group saga proceeds as follows:

Vernon, Sian and I decide to name our MasterMind group the ‘Gathering of Geniuses’.

On a regular basis, we have fun sharing about our projects, supporting and cheering each other on.

Sian observes that I’m a skilled writer / editor, and so introduces me by phone to Adam J. Kovitz, Founder / Publisher of TNNW.

Adam and I hit it off, and he invites me to serve as TNNW Women’s Networking Editor (my title at that time).

Unexpectedly, Major Vernon Myers (charged with high-level military duties) is ordered to Kuwait. Sian and I now find our e-mails to him unanswered. We miss his positive-minded, supportive spirit!

Sian goes through major personal and professional changes; eventually picks up and moves to Colorado.

I go through major changes also (including emergency eye surgery) and eventually move from Kingston, WA to Bainbridge Island.

Given all these changes, our group gradually dissolves ─ yet Sian and I maintain contact over the years and across the miles. (Side note: The start point of this mini-network, Paul Hoyt, and I are still occasionally in touch. He himself has moved to Northern California!)

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Now ─ fast forwarding to present time, March 2009, nearly two years later ─ here I am, with high visibility at TNNW, writing a Women’s Networking article about the ever-dynamic Sian herself. Who would have thought!…

To begin, before moving into the interview, let’s get an “outside view” of Sian.

Who is Sian Lindemann, and what is she all about?

In the realm of The National Networker, Sian is the Featured Columnist ─ “Lasting Impressions” ─ with general focus on Arts-related topics.

In the larger entrepreneurial realm, Sian is the Founder and Executive Director of her own company, Sian Design: http://www.siandesign.com/

The “About Us” page on her site provides this background information:

For 30 years, Sian Lindemann has contributed to the business growth and development of world class artists, and has been the instrument AND the idea behind the procurement of millions of dollars in sales in the Fine Art, Jewelry, Sculpture and Clothing industries.

Ms. Lindemann has had a hand in designing the marketing and sales strategies to ultimately place those artists’ works.

As in previous years, flexing with industry trends, Sian Lindemann shifts with the change once again. The onset of the internet, and particularly Social Networking, has brought to the industry a significant opportunity.

Exploring the Sian Design site

On the opening page, you are greeted by this message:

“Art has a Voice – Is Yours Being Heard?”

Immediately after these words, we are shown an intro to Social Traffic, Inc., Sian’s new passion: Social Media Marketing, along with the link to the site.

With over two years of research, and active participation in the "buzz" of social networking, Sian Design, is a proud contributor and active participant in the innovations of Simon U Ford, an Australian based, social networking and internet marketing expert.

The development of two companies, Social Traffic Inc, and Events Listed provides an incredible new way to "work" the net and to promote and make visible, your company, your events, your art, and just about anything else you would like the world to know about

To begin and to become a part of the new generation in marketing and promotions, globally ─ GO TO...

www.socialtraffic.biz

We're changing the world

One event at a time.

In our interview to follow, Sian will discuss what all this means in enthusiastic detail. For; now, let’s complete our tour of the Sian Design web site.

Services available for Artists

The astoundingly broad array of Services listed on the site includes:

· Career Development / Planning
· Business Development
· Conceptual and Design Development
· Marketing and Sales Strategies
· Show Design / Implementation
· Creative Framing
· Web Sales / Education
· Project Management
· Custom Art Installation, Indoors / Outdoors
· Lighting Design
· Retail Sales / Retail Sales Training
· Artist Management
· Event Planning
· Non Profit Fundraising / Art Sales, Art Auctions / Tile Mural Fundraisers

FREE Service For ArtistsThe National Networker / ONLINE

http://www.thenationalnetworker.com/

The Sian Design Portfolio page

The Portfolio section of Sian’s site features the outstanding Fine Art Photography of Jim Zuckerman ─ http://www.corporatefineart.com/

Moving on to the interview!

Well, it’s time to talk directly to this multi-faceted lady. To begin, I ask her to explain this dynamic new “Social Media Marketing” avenue she has taken with her work, her life direction.

How would you briefly describe what you do (i.e., your “elevator speech”)?

“Artist Management / Creative Business Development Services ─ and more recently I’ve become involved with a grass roots organization that has developed into a company providing Social Media Marketing Services across the web. It’s called Social Traffic Inc., with leadership provided by Australian internet marketing genius, Simon U Ford (find him on Facebook).”

What makes you / your company unique? In other words, what is the so-called Unique Selling Proposition (USP) of your product or service?

“In these financial times ─ and ongoingly as well ─ it has been essential to develop very creative ways to ’invent’ a marketing strategy for artists…I have been doing this successfully for 30 years. With the challenge presented by President Bush prior his departure from office, it has become increasingly essential to rethink my whole business, and so adopting Social Media Marketing Strategies and the tech education to accompany it, has been essential.

We ─ i.e., our Social Traffic group -- are ongoingly now going to be providing classes to individuals who want to learn these methodologies. A Free Class was held, starting March 25, 2009. After this event, courses will be paid entry.”

What is the primary goal / mission of what you do: i.e., your work, your artistic and / or humanitarian activities?

“This Mission and goal of my company is to elevate an artist to maximum visibility via adopting a strategy that aligns with their core ideologies and values. In other words, the art becomes a support for the VOICE of the artist…This switch in adopting a visionary approach to the presentation of their craft elevates their visibility, gives the artist a global voice and message and ultimately procures sales based on that vision, and thus supports it.”

So here's where your “Art has a Voice” tag line comes in?

“Exactly. Now, to continue, Humanitarian causes are the human element involved. I have worked with artists over the years that exhibit every kind of self-sabotaging methodology you can imagine… and quite honestly, once we overcome those issues, they can’t help but shine. It takes time, it causes disruption ─ but those who genuinely get ‘sick’ of playing it small blast forward. That is the fun part.”

And how exactly does this fit in with the Social Traffic enterprise?

“With Social Traffic Inc., nowm we are broadcasting a message across the web called “SAVINGS for the Earth” in alliance with an Earth Day Birthday Campaign. We are asking our supporters to devise ways they can save $10.00 or more by eliminating wasteful expenditure of our natural resources, i.e., by driving less, eliminating the use of paper towels, saving their change. Or something like that.

We are offering suggestions as to great organizations they can contribute to, or they can choose where they place their $10.00 ─ AND we are asking each individual to make a video speaking to how they will create those savings and posting it on our YouTube channel: For example:
“
Social Traffic / Earthday Birthday
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Earthday+Bday

OR also see Twitter
http://www.twitter.com/Earthdaybday “

Just the other day, Sian, I saw your latest TNNW article --

-- titled “Social Responsibility in Business and in the Arts” ─ http://thenationalnetworker.blogspot.com/2009/03/lasting-impressions-social.html .

Interesting! In this article you state:

A “renaissance” if you will, is upon us, and the business of art and the business of “networking” will never be the same.”

And you extend an invitation to readers:

‘I welcome those who want to know more about what we are doing. I welcome those who want to be a part. I welcome those who are willing to drop their ego at the door and become a part of history.’

So ─ what exactly does a person DO once he/she signs up for Social Traffic?

“Well, when one signs up for Social Traffic, they receive an 8 week course in Social Media Marketing, video content and Mentorship in the art of Social Media Marketing and cross syndication of content... It is free, and a class starts Wed., March 25, 2009. [Note: This date is now past.] After this session, there will be a cost for the course content, approx $2500 value, received at $1500 US dollars.”

Sounds like a unique opportunity!

“The company / group has formed around a ‘survivor’ idea....shares issued in a forming company based on contribution and participation. GREAT concept, and many people showed up and provided their skills, expertise and business acumen, while learning this methodology ─ and some were eventually ‘voted’ off the island.

The Social Traffic group is in process of forming a company, whose first client will be 'Events Listed': a social platform on the web for event promoters, organizers and participants.

People can participate with the company, or they can just learn the skills for their own use. It’s your choice.”

What is it you find so exciting about all this, and how specifically does it fit in with your Art business?

“This fits in with my art business for the following reasons. For example, here is a possibility: www.johnkraft.com/virtual-opening

It’s a great model link… If an individual artist wished to create a virtual exhibition, here is a way that they could... promoting and cross syndicating the presentation, eliminating the need to stack images in a URL such as Art.com and never really being seen.

This is a great model. The Social Traffic methodology is a way to promote the events across the web.

Additionally, some artists are allowing me the usage of their images to enhance articles, blogs and posts on FaceBook and other places to better define and SHOW what we're up to.... Somewhat like stock photography, yet the art becomes purposeful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dr6Vqpe

This is great sample, leading up to a full scale MM event in China next year.”

So, Sian ─ hypothetically, if I myself signed up for this program, how might I use that for promoting my work as author / editor?

“Yes, you could. There is one full course on article marketing, and cross syndication. Regarding YouTube content, we drove a YouTube video produced by us to the top of the Google search engines in only 8 days, and superseded all of Google’s own content. THAT is a significant result.”

Clearly, you are highly enthusiastic and deeply involved!
Now back up a bit and tell me how you got started in all this Arts business, and how you arrived where you are currently.

“The arts, I’ve been a part of since I was 8 years old. I fell into arts promotion as a result of marrying Stephen Schlag on Maui back in 1980. He had a gift shop in which I would never have considered buying anything. I didn’t like the merchandise, and since I was a flight attendant for Pan AM at the time, I suggested that I bring back things from around the world to sell there.

This store subsequently became a chain of fine art, sculpture and jewelry galleries where I was then the VP / owner, which we owned and operated for the next 10 years. The galleries still exist in Hawaii: Dolphin Galleries Inc.”

Which of your projects are you currently most excited / passionate about?

“I am impassioned about my work with Social Traffic Inc. and I am of course, impassioned about the changes that are occurring within my business in the redirect that was essential due to the economy… We are progressing fantastically well.
http://www.socialtraffic.biz/ ---
http://www.siandesign.com/ ---

A switch in methodology has been to market to the ‘big box’ stores, which has never been my first choice; however, with the economy as such, it is essential to switch gears.

The high end art acquisition has transitioned to working with a company out of Canada that allows for high end acquisition and a significant philanthropic agenda:
http://www.venturion.ca/

This is topic for another article, actually… It’s an AMAZING program and doing well even in these financial times.”

How much of your work is focused specifically toward women? Please explain.

“My work is women-specific, but the team with Social Traffic is a large number of women who by nature, enjoy working ‘together’ in a way that supports our vision, our tenacity and our ‘hearts’.

Of course, the men in the organization are extraordinary individuals, who recognize the passions and pro-active nature of women to get the job done. There is a fine balance, yet is not exclusive to women.

Working within this group, I have expressed vehemently how much I admire each of the individuals who are participating… They are a willing collective that are devoted to the premise of:

‘Alone we can do so little, Together we can do so much.’
~ Helen Keller

What are some of the ways and places you promote your enterprises?

“It’s Social Media Marketing now, almost exclusively. However, very shortly these promotions shall roll out into the public domain, and into retail venues.”

Whom or what does your network currently include?

“It’s no longer about my list. The combined efforts of this team are building across the web, with over 5,000 new participants in less than a few months and building daily and each team member bringing their lists and colleagues to the table. You can’t buy this. It’s incredible.”

What has been the best about building a network: Positive experiences? Benefits, expected and unexpected?

“In one word, Fulfillment.”

What challenges (if any) have you found in your networking experiences? Any benefits emerging from challenges in the long run?

“As with any startup, Social Traffic is not yet remunerative. However, were I to have created the same company independent of this grass roots effort, it would have taken 2-3 years in fundraising, well over 2 + Million dollars and a lot of headaches. All of this has occurred in less than 4 months.

A grass roots agenda, fostered by Simon U Ford, had us come to the table to participate with the option of receiving shares in the company and being voted into the leadership and shareholder model through performance.

It’s somewhat like the reality show ‘Survivor’ and it’s been a blast. Just take care you don’t get voted off the island for lack of participation.”

Okay, I promise I'll be careful! Now ─ bottom line – What do you feel is really working well for you?

“I LOVE what I am doing now, it’s fun again…and hasn’t been for a while.

Besides networking, how else are you promoting your company? Which do you view as the primary vehicle and what makes it more important than the other(s)?

“Social Media marketing… and ‘helping’ others. When I get stuck I go find someone to help or give to. That method has worked for me for 30 years.”

What’s the achievement or accomplishment you’re most proud of at this time?

“I am proud of the fact that we have a team of people, each of whom I admire, and revere unconditionally. That is NEW !!! and so very RARE. And we are full hearted, caring, nurturing, talented and passionate.

I am proud to be a part of the team and the company. And I am proud of the levels of visibility my artists are achieving in the process.”

What are your plans and goals for the future, organizational and / or personal, especially regarding networking activities?

“Social Media Marketing. Social Traffic. I want to share this personalized methodology with the world… it’s needed ─ and it works."

Any other point you’d like to emphasize at this time?

“I love my JOB, my company, my work, my colleagues, my business agenda, and my life. How many people can say that authentically? Or at all? And I am learning SO much !!!

That aspect is of particular interest to me ─ I’ve not been stimulated nor inspired this much in some time… LIKE years!!!”

Anything else you would like to add for our readers? Perhaps words of encouragement and / or inspiration?

“Run, don’t walk to know more about http://www.socialtraffic.biz/ . It will change your life and your business.”

Thank you so much, Sian! Beyond the innovative program you’ve just shared with us, your excitement in itself is an energetic gift!

---------------------------------------
Contact Information:

Sian Lindemann
Social Traffic Inc / Events Coordinator
http://www.socialtraffic.biz/
Events Listed
http://www.eventslisted.com/
Sian Design, Executive Director
http://www.siandesign.com/

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Key Words:

Sian Lindemann, Sian Design, Arts, Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Social Traffic, Simon U Ford, Events Listed, Jim Zuckerman, Fine Art Photography, Facebook, Twitter, Ann Barczay Sloan, Adam Kovitz, TNNW

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Ann Barczay Sloan, M.A.
Author & Editor / Creative Writing Coach
www.GeniusUnbound.com
www.linkedin.com/in/AnnBarczaySloan
Featured Columnist,
www.TheNationalNetworker.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Author of the forthcoming book:
How to Use the Pieces of a Broken Heart:
Recipes for Rebirth
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

_______________________________________________________

Posted to THE NATIONAL NETWORKER.



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